How to Clean Shutters

Reduce dust with the proper method

PrattTribune - Pratt, KS

Writer

Posted Mar. 23, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Mar 23, 2013 at 10:23 PM

Posted Mar. 23, 2013 at 12:01 AM
Updated Mar 23, 2013 at 10:23 PM

Window shutters can be a very practical addition to any home, helping to keep out bright sunlight and protecting the windows. Shutters also can look very attractive, but like any feature on your home, if they are not properly maintained, they can quickly look shabby and spoil the overall appearance of your house. Follow these tips to keep your shutters clean and in the best condition possible.

Choosing the right time. It is important to clean your shutters when the weather is suitable. Cleaning in a downpour of rain is not a very good idea, but neither is working on a very hot day. Try to choose a warm, dry day when you have plenty of time. It can be hard work, so you want to be able to do it at a pace that suits you.

Choosing the right cleaning products. Cleaning products will vary according to the material that your shutters are made from. For plain wood shutters, for example, you should avoid using detergents, and instead use a wood polish that can be sprayed on. For vinyl or painted shutters, a mild dish detergent can be used.

Follow a simple cleaning process. If your home has a single story, then cleaning your shutters should be easier because everything is at ground level. You can start by brushing all the loose dirt and debris off the shutters. Use a hose to first rinse the shutters, before using a mop and or a soft-bristled brush to clean the shutters more carefully with water (and detergent, if appropriate). If you are using detergent, rinse the shutters quickly and do not allow soap to dry on the shutters. A clean dry mop can then be used to wipe the shutters dry.

Safety in two-story homes. Use a ladder so that you can safely reach the shutters on the upper story. Ideally, enlist an assistant who can watch and hold the ladder for you. Make sure that you do not lean too far to reach the shutters. Instead, climb down the ladder, move it closer and climb up again. Do not lean out of windows to clean your shutters, and remove anything from underneath the ladder that could be damaged if you dropped something.